Akiko Iwasaki is interested in how immunity is initiated and maintained at mucosal surfaces – natural ports of entry for pathogens. Iwasaki and her team focus on understanding how viruses are recognized (innate immunity) and how that information is used to generate protective adaptive immunity. They study immune responses to herpes simplex viruses in the genital tract and influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 in the lung. The team also investigates the role of endogenous retroviruses and transposable elements in host immunity and physiology. Ultimately, their goal is to improve rational design of effective therapeutics and vaccines to prevent transmission of viral pathogens.
Thirteen project teams involving 70 scientists from 29 institutions are collaborating on basic research targeted at preparedness for future emerging pathogens that could threaten human health. In mice, a vaccination strategy that uses an mRNA coronavirus vaccine injection followed by a nasal spray booster generates immune protection in the airways. A new study is currently enrolling people with long COVID who have not yet been vaccinated. The work could tell researchers what’s driving the condition and offer clues to treatment. Data from COVID-19 cases around the world suggest that the new coronavirus hits men harder than women. Differences in men and women’s immune responses to the virus may help explain why. Research labs are racing to develop innovative testing methods and overcome the bottlenecks to more widespread testing, which is crucial to controlling the spread of the disease. Eleven HHMI scientists have been elected to the National Academy of Sciences. An interferon cell receptor spurs cell suicide in mouse fetuses infected with Zika virus and could play a role in certain pregnancy complications.